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Graduate Research Assistant Jobs in Encinitas, CA

Calibr

RESEARCH ASSISTANT I - Dik Lab

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20.67 - $25.06/hr

Research Assistant I POSITION SUMMARY: The successful candidate will join the early-stage discovery research team at Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines and contribute to both drug ...

Calibr

RESEARCH ASSISTANT I - Dik Lab

San Diego, CA

$20.67 - $25.06/hr

Research Assistant I POSITION SUMMARY: The successful candidate will join the early-stage discovery research team at Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines and contribute to both drug ...

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How much do graduate research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research assistant in Encinitas, CA is $20.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $24.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate research assistant?

Graduate Research Assistants (GRAs) are graduate students who work under the supervision of faculty members to assist with academic research projects. Their responsibilities can include data collection, literature reviews, conducting experiments, analyzing results, and helping to prepare research publications or presentations. These positions often provide students with hands-on experience in their field of study and may offer a stipend or tuition waiver as compensation. GRAs play a crucial role in advancing university research while developing skills for future academic or professional careers.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a graduate research assistant?

To thrive as a Graduate Research Assistant, you need a solid academic background in your field, strong analytical skills, and experience with research methodologies. Proficiency with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or MATLAB), literature databases, and possibly laboratory equipment is often required. Excellent organization, attention to detail, and strong communication skills set candidates apart in collaborative research environments. These skills are essential for producing high-quality research, meeting project deadlines, and contributing effectively to academic teams.

What challenges do graduate research assistants face when balancing research projects with coursework?

Graduate Research Assistants often juggle multiple responsibilities, including research tasks, coursework, and sometimes teaching duties. Time management is a frequent challenge, as research projects may have unpredictable workloads or urgent deadlines that overlap with academic requirements. Clear communication with your advisor and setting realistic expectations can help manage these demands. Many assistants find that developing strong organizational skills and seeking support from peers or mentors aids in maintaining a healthy balance between research and academic obligations.

What is the difference between Graduate Research Assistant vs Research Intern?

AspectGraduate Research AssistantResearch Intern
Required CredentialsGraduate degree (Master's or Ph.D.) often requiredUndergraduate or graduate students, less formal credentials needed
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institution, often part of a universityResearch labs, industry, or academic settings, usually temporary
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesCorporations, research firms, academic labs

In summary, a Graduate Research Assistant typically holds a graduate degree and works within academic or research institutions, focusing on long-term research projects. In contrast, a Research Intern is often a student or early-career individual gaining practical experience, usually on a temporary basis in various research settings.

Can you be a graduate research assistant with a master's degree?

Yes, a master's degree is often sufficient to qualify for a graduate research assistant position, which typically requires strong research skills, familiarity with relevant tools, and academic coursework. Some positions may prefer or require additional qualifications such as a related bachelor's degree or specific technical expertise.

Is being a graduate research assistant worth it?

A graduate research assistant role provides valuable research experience, skills in data analysis and academic writing, and networking opportunities within a university environment. However, it often involves low pay and a demanding schedule, so its worth depends on individual career goals and financial needs.
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Graduate Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Research Assistant job openings in Encinitas, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,178 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

RESEARCH ASSISTANT I - Irvine Lab

Scripps Research

San Diego, CA • On-site

$20.67 - $25.06/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

ABOUT US:

Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute ranked as one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. We celebrated our 100-year legacy in 2024. This significant milestone marks a century of seminal discoveries in immunology, infectious diseases (such as COVID-19, flu, HIV), neuroscience, heart disease, cancer, and more. Located in La Jolla, California, the institute houses six research departments, multiple Nobel laureates, a top-ranked graduate school and a leading postdoctoral training program. Scripps Research encompasses two elite and highly innovative institutes, the Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines and Scripps Research Translational Institute, which merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs impacting human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.
 

POSITION TITLE:  Research Assistant I

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Irvine Lab at Scripps Research is currently recruiting a dynamic, passionate professional with a strong interest in advancing vaccine research and development. The Research Assistant I will work under supervision of a senior lab member and provide technical assistance with immuno-engineering projects. 

RESPONSIBLITIES AND DUTIES:

  • Support studies in mouse models under supervision, including animal handling, injections, non-invasive imaging, necropsies, and preparation of flow cytometry samples.
  • Help with preparation and testing of protein- and RNA-based vaccines.
  • Independently conduct a wide variety of standard laboratory techniques/procedures, including mammalian cell culture, antibody, and cytokine ELISAs.
  • Help ordering and receiving project-specific supplies.
  • Attend lab meetings and journal club.  

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Requires a Bachelor’s degree in  biology or chemical biology, cell biology, immunology or an equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skill and abilities have been attained.
  • Requires 1-3 years experience. Candidates possessing a Master’s degree, 0-2 years experience required.
  • Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and within a team environment.
  • Comfort and confidence working directly with animals.
  • Meticulous attention to detail with strong documentation practices.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and modify procedures, interpreting and performing initial analysis of results.
  • Solid understanding of, and adherence to, safety protocols to maintain a secure work environment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:   

  • This position works in a laboratory or vivarium environment. 
  • Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

  Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

COMPENSATION: The expected hiring range for this position is $20.67 to $25.06 per hour, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:  

  • Employer Contributed Retirement Plan – Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post-tax dollars) 
  • Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more
  • Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)
  • Competitive vacation and sick leave policies
  • Free, on-site parking

     The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms.  The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice.   Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff. 

    EEO Statement:
    The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status.

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